Living our Values

At Falling Creek, we believe that the values we live by shape who we are and how we grow. This week, we’re taking time to reflect on what really matters—friendship, self-discipline, and becoming our best personal self. These aren’t just lofty ideas. These values help us make decisions, face challenges, and create meaningful connections.

They’re not just words on a page. They’re lived out in everyday moments—like encouraging a cabinmate during a hike, following through on a commitment, or stepping up to serve without being asked. But how do we know if we’re truly living them?

This week, campers will sit down with a trusted member of their cabin to talk about just that. Through simple, meaningful conversations, they’ll reflect on what part of the Falling Creek Code and Creed they see in one another. Together, they’ll narrow it down to one or two defining attributes—qualities that show who they are and what they stand for.

The goal is for each boy to recognize what he wants to be known for—and to see that he’s already becoming that kind of person.
The saying and the doing are lining up.

These one-on-one conversations are a powerful step toward understanding what we stand for and how we’re already living it. The camp environment helps us build those muscles. But the real test? Taking those values with us when life gets hard.

Why Do Our Values Matter?

At camp, values playing out through the FCC code like integrity, kindness, and personal growth are more than character lessons—they’re the groundwork for trust, confidence, and friendship. When we lead with values, we create a better community around us. That doesn’t stop when we leave camp. These are the building blocks of a meaningful life.

And we see these values all the time—in both big and small ways.

Think about Alex Honnold, the rock climber who scaled El Capitan with no ropes. Sure, he has physical strength, but it was his preparation, discipline, and courage that carried him to the top.

He lived his values day in and day out—and that’s what made the impossible possible.

We don’t all need to climb cliffs. But each of us will face hard things. When we do, the question becomes: How will we show up?

Living Our Values at Camp and Home

Adventure – Embracing the future with courage

• At Camp: Trying an adventure activity for the first time—even if it feels a little scary.
• At Home: Stepping outside your comfort zone, whether it’s speaking up, starting a new hobby, or asking for help.

Community – Creating a space where everyone belongs

• At Camp: Choosing not to react harshly when someone makes a mistake.
• At Home: Making sure everyone in your circle feels heard and appreciated.

Growth – Continually learning and improving

• At Camp: Taking the time to learn a new skill—even if it means failing at first.
• At Home: Setting personal goals, working toward them, and celebrating small wins.

Integrity – Doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching

• At Camp: Returning something to lost-and-found instead of keeping it.
• At Home: Following through on a promise without being reminded.